In a recent interview featured in Vanity Fair, Johansson expressed her feelings, stating, “I feel like it’s almost my duty to give you some option to burn Michael back.” This statement indicates her playful readiness to retaliate against Che for his audacious humor during the previous episode, further enhancing the anticipation for her hosting performance.

Johansson elaborated that “retaliation, I’d say, needs to be expected,” suggesting that the comedic atmosphere of SNL might be heightened by her willingness to fire back at Che. She hinted at the possibility that her fellow cast members might assist her in delivering some clever humor during her hosting stint. This sets the stage for a potentially entertaining episode filled with playful banter.

With her deep connections to SNL, Johansson is no stranger to the sketch comedy world. This weekend’s episode marks her seventh time hosting the iconic show, underscoring her established rapport with the cast and crew. Beyond her relationship with Jost, Johansson has made multiple cameo appearances on SNL, further solidifying her status as part of the SNL family.

The infamous Christmas joke swap moment was particularly memorable due to its unexpected nature. Johansson was present on stage during one of her guest appearances when Jost delivered a joke crafted by Che that neither she nor her husband had previewed. The surprise element amplified the humor, making it one of the most talked-about moments in recent SNL history.

Johansson later reflected on the experience, saying, “I had all these cameras on me. I did not expect the setup to be like that.” Her candid reaction revealed her surprise at the juvenile humor, stating, “I was like, ‘Wow, you really are seventh-, eighth-grade boys.’” This insight into her experience adds a layer of relatability for fans watching at home.

In a January interview on The Tonight Show, Jost revealed that Johansson was given a prior warning of sorts about the joke that would be delivered. According to him, the producers asked, “Hey, would you be okay if Michael made a bit of, like, sort of vagina joke at some point?” To which Johansson responded, “Sure, whatever, I’m open to it.” This exchange showcases the lighthearted nature of their relationship and the comedic environment of SNL.

However, neither of them anticipated the specific content of the joke, as the core idea of the “joke swap” is to share jokes that are completely unfamiliar to the other partner before going live. This adds an element of surprise and spontaneity that makes their comedic exchanges even more entertaining for the audience.

Jost recounted that when the joke was read aloud, “The graphic came up for [roast beef] and Scarlett was backstage like, ‘Oh my god, that is what it is!’” His description highlights the genuine surprise and humor of the moment, capturing the reactions of both Johansson and Jost perfectly.

Jost delivered the punchline live on air, stating, “Costco has removed the roast beef sandwich from its menu. But I ain’t trippin. I’ve been eating roast beef every night since my wife had the baby.” This joke was the climax of the segment, showcasing Jost’s comedic timing and the overall playful spirit of the show.

As Jost awkwardly laughed and covered his face in embarrassment, Johansson was captured watching the live episode backstage. Her shocked reaction was palpable as she exclaimed, “Oh my god!” immediately after he read Che’s provocative joke. This candid moment highlights the unpredictable nature of live television and the inherent risks of comedy.

Reflecting on the incident, Johansson told InStyle magazine, “I just can’t believe that they went there. It was so vulgar. It was so gross. It was really gross. And, like, old-school gross.” Her sentiments resonate with many viewers who appreciate the boundary-pushing nature of SNL comedy, yet may also find it shocking.

Johansson admitted that it was uncomfortable knowing the cameras were on her during that moment, stating, “They were waiting for me to react. I felt insane. The fact that it took on a full To Catch a Predator-style reveal or whatever,” highlighting the surreal experience she had during the live show. Her insights provide a unique behind-the-scenes look at the pressures of performing on live television.

With her return to Studio 8H, Johansson is clearly excited, as evidenced by a recent mid-week sketch shared on the show’s official YouTube page. In this sketch, Johansson is humorously “rescued” by Sarah Sherman from her overly affectionate husband, Jost, who is hoping for a romantic moment on this weekend’s show.

In this segment, Sherman’s character intervenes during a comedic scenario that references Sherman’s own recent SNL controversy involving a White Lotus parody, showcasing the show’s ability to weave in current events and humor seamlessly.

Given the memorable events from December, fans are buzzing with excitement about what might unfold during Johansson’s return, speculating that something significant will occur, though it may not involve a kiss after all!

As fans eagerly anticipate how Johansson will creatively make the boys pay for their “Update” antics, there’s also speculation about whether either co-host might bid farewell to the show. Both are among the longest-serving cast members, with Jost approaching the end of his twelfth season and Che nearing his eleventh.

Could Johansson’s appearance signify a bittersweet farewell for these two beloved co-hosts, perhaps even taking her husband home with her after the show?

Other cast members who may potentially say goodbye after the landmark fiftieth season include Mikey Day (10 seasons), Heidi Gardner (8 seasons), and Ego Nwodim (7 seasons). Since seven seasons is typically the standard for original contracts on SNL, all five performers have the option to leave the show. There’s even talk that six-season cast members Bowen Yang or Chloe Fineman might also consider departing.

One of the most pressing questions remains whether creator and showrunner Lorne Michaels might also say goodbye after leading the show through 45 of its 50 seasons. His indecision over the past few years leaves fans wondering if he would even want a grand farewell when he eventually steps down.

Regardless, viewers will be on high alert for any signs or hints of farewell — both expected and unexpected — from Michaels and several cast members. However, it’s almost a certainty that Kenan Thompson (22 seasons) will be around whenever the lights go down for the final time.